Craving a delicious and exciting dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Thai Pepper Steak recipe delivers a burst of vibrant flavors, combining tender steak with a fiery yet sweet and savory Thai-inspired sauce. It's the perfect easy recipe for busy weeknights, impressing both family and friends with minimal effort. This healthy meal is packed with protein and flavor, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 Thai red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, cornstarch, and water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.
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Sear the Steak: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the steak and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the bell pepper and red onion to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened. Add the minced garlic and Thai chilies, and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine and Simmer: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked steak back to the skillet, coating it evenly with the sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the steak is heated through.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately over cooked rice.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Thai Pepper Steak:
- Thinly sliced steak cooks faster: Ensure your steak is thinly sliced against the grain for optimal tenderness and faster cooking time.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the spice level: Start with one Thai chili and add more according to your preference. Remember, the heat builds gradually.
- Fresh ingredients make a difference: Using fresh cilantro and high-quality fish sauce will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, snow peas, or mushrooms.
- Use different protein: Chicken or shrimp can be substituted for the steak. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make it sweeter or spicier: Adjust the amount of brown sugar and chilies to your liking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Thai Pepper Steak recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors! It's a surefire way to add a touch of excitement to your everyday healthy meals. Try it tonight and become a master of delicious dishes and best recipes!